And Just Like That...Elder Steenblik is Off!

This morning, we all woke up bright and early to be out the door by 4:15 am to get to the airport.  We loaded the car with Tyler's luggage and then got to the airport without any problems.  Tony found a good parking spot in short term parking and then we all went into the airport.  Allie was very excited to go in an airport for the first time.

We had to go up the escalators to go to the Delta counter. We decided to just wait in line and have them check him in and check his two suitcases.  After he was all checked in, we went back down to the main floor where we would see him off at security.

We saw many other missionaries with their families checking in and getting ready to say their good-byes.  We had plenty of time, so we decided to hang out and chat while he waited for other missionaries from his district to come.  He found his companion and we were able to meet him and his family.  His name is Elder Best from Kearns.  

We took some pictures and then decided to give our hugs and say our good-byes.  Tyler squeezed Josh really hard, then Josh squeezed Tyler back really hard.  Boys are so funny.  I took a picture of them side by side so that in two years we can compare.  Tyler has not wanted to admit that Josh is now taller than him.  He would always say, not until after I leave can Josh be taller. I guess Josh can officially be taller than Tyler now.  

Not many tears, just some wet eyes.  Right before he left, his high school Seminary principal came and said hello to Tyler.  He was there with his daughter, who was also going to the Mexico MTC this morning.  

It was a very happy and sad for us morning.  Sad just because we will miss him and happy for all the amazing experiences he is going to have.  This is where he is supposed to be, and I have been blessed with confirmation from the spirit that Tyler will be safe.  It won't be easy, but he'll be good...great even.  

We have already seen the blessings of Tyler serving a mission and we look forward to seeing what adventures he has in store.  He will be missed by us all. 

After we watched him go with his companion into the security line, we then left the airport.  Tony drove us all home and then got in his car and went to work.  It was pretty sad looking at the office all empty when just last week the desk was covered in all his home MTC study materials, the computer, snacks, and tissues.  It was nice having him home for those extra days.  Mexico and Paraguay are lucky to have him.